Science Inquiry and Application
During the years of grades 5-8, all students must use the following scientific processes, with appropriate laboratory safety techniques, to construct their knowledge and understanding in all science content areas:
•Identify questions that can be answered through scientific investigations;
•Design and conduct a scientific investigation;
•Use appropriate mathematics, tools and techniques to gather data and information;
•Analyze and interpret data;
•Develop descriptions, models, explanations and predictions;
•Think critically and logically to connect evidence and explanations;
•Recognize and analyze alternative explanations and predications; and
•Communicate scientific procedures and explanations.
Units
Earth and Space Science
The composition and properties of Earth’s interior are identified by the behavior of seismic waves.
Earth’s crust consists of major and minor tectonic plates that move relative to each other.
A combination of constructive and destructive geologic processes formed Earth’s surface.
Evidence of the dynamic changes of Earth’s surface through time is found in the geologic record.
Physical Science
Forces between objects act when the objects are in direct contact or when they are not touching.
Forces have magnitude and direction.
There are different types of potential energy.
Life Science
Diversity of species occurs through gradual processes over many generations. Fossil records provide evidence that changes have occurred in number and types of species.
Reproduction is necessary for the continuation of every species.
The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
Additional INQUIRY Web Resources (Lessons, Assessments, Video, Content Information, etc.):
Forces and MotionNumerous labs/activities regarding Newton's laws of motion and forces
Forces and Motion Inquiry LabsListed below are inquiry labs written to complement an eighth grade unit on forces and motion. Because inquiry is the basis of these labs, they can be completed by students in grades 5-8 at any point during the year in order to reinforce the scientific method, to instruct students on statistics, to prepare students for science fair, or just for the students to have fun doing real science. Potential Energy Video with Wile E Coyote
Core Content Committee (CCC) Representative: Jeff Email: jdeblase@pccsd.net
Contributors:
NAEP Interactive Science Computer Task
http://nationsreportcard.gov/science_2009/ict_tasks.asp
Standards & Model Curriculum
ODE Revised Science Standards
During the years of grades 5-8, all students must use the following scientific processes, with appropriate laboratory safety techniques, to construct their knowledge and understanding in all science content areas:
•Identify questions that can be answered through scientific investigations;
•Design and conduct a scientific investigation;
•Use appropriate mathematics, tools and techniques to gather data and information;
•Analyze and interpret data;
•Develop descriptions, models, explanations and predictions;
•Think critically and logically to connect evidence and explanations;
•Recognize and analyze alternative explanations and predications; and
•Communicate scientific procedures and explanations.
Earth and Space Science
Physical Science
Introduction to Earthquakes
Introduction to Volcanoes
Earth's Structure Activities, PowerPoints, Quizzes, and Graphic Organizers
Geologic Time/Archeological Record
Graham Cracker Plate Tectonics Students model the three types of plate boundaries using graham crakers and frosting
Plate Tectonics Unit Multiple lessons for a plate tectonics lesson
Rocks, Rock Cycle, and Minerals
Weathering and Erosion
Latest Earthquakes Worldwide Up to the minute data on worldwide earthquakes
Forces and Motion Numerous labs/activities regarding Newton's laws of motion and forces
Forces and Motion Inquiry LabsListed below are inquiry labs written to complement an eighth grade unit on forces and motion. Because inquiry is the basis of these labs, they can be completed by students in grades 5-8 at any point during the year in order to reinforce the scientific method, to instruct students on statistics, to prepare students for science fair, or just for the students to have fun doing real science.
Potential Energy Video with Wile E Coyote
Magnetic Forces Animation
Roller Coaster Animation Comparing the amount of kinetic and potential energy on a roller coaster ride using a bar graph
The Fossil Record Two day fossil record lesson plan
Inherited Traits Three different activities regarding inherited traits (widow's peak, tongue roll, and connected earlobes
Importance of Reproduction to a Species Comparing asexual and sexual reproduction
Making a Model Cell Using a zip lock, candy, pasta, and corn syrup to model an animal cell